In response to Ed Koch’s endorsement of Bob Turner for Congress, I ask whether Ed Koch really thought this one through.

Koch says that his endorsement of the Republican candidate is meant to “send a message” to the Obama administration that the President’s policy on Israel is disagreeable. Despite the fact that David Weprin is a staunch supporter of Israel, Koch endorses a candidate who has stated that global warming is “highly suspect,” opposes the DREAM Act, a woman’s right to choose, and gay marriage, and favors spending cuts that would slash programs like social security and Medicare.

Overall, Bob Turner’s policy stances and beliefs run counter to the values epitomized by the Democratic Party. The spite of Koch’s endorsement is detrimental to our politics and detracts from meaningful conversation on Israel. Why should the Obama administration be responsive to the endorsement of a Republication candidate who is dead-set on undoing Obama’s domestic achievements, especially when the Democratic candidate is such an ardent supporter of Israel?

Koch’s endorsement of Bob Turner only adds to the unfortunate modern culture in politics that encourages a narrow focus on hot-button issues at the expense of the middle class and the good of the country.